Metal detecting is a fun and exciting hobby that lets you uncover hidden treasures and explore the past. Whether you’re searching for lost coins, valuable relics, or precious gold, it can be both thrilling and rewarding. However, with so many metal detectors available in 2025, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced detectorist, selecting the best metal detector that fits your needs is crucial for your success.
In 2025, metal detectors come in many models, each with unique features designed for specific purposes. Some detectors are great for beginners, offering simple controls and ease of use. Others target professionals who need high sensitivity, improved technology, and deeper detection. These detectors vary in price and capabilities. Some are waterproof, others suit specific terrains like beaches or forests, and some focus on finding gold nuggets.
Choosing the right metal detector depends on several factors: your experience level, the types of treasures you want to find, and the environments you’ll search in. Whether you’re looking for an affordable option to start or a high-performance detector for serious treasure hunting, there’s a model that matches your needs.
In this blog, we’ll guide you through six of the best metal detectors of 2025. We’ll discuss their key features, pros and cons, and who they are best suited for. By the end of this guide, you’ll know which metal detector is the best fit for your next treasure-hunting adventure.
At a Glance: 6 of the Best Metal Detectors in 2025
Before we explore each product in detail, here’s a quick overview of the top-rated models in 2025:
- Minelab Equinox 900 – Best Overall Metal Detector
- Garrett ACE 400 – Best for Beginners
- Fisher F75 – Best for Treasure Hunters
- Nokta Makro Simplex+ – Best Waterproof Detector
- Minelab Gold Monster 1000 – Best for Gold Prospecting
- XP Deus II – Best for Advanced Users
Minelab Equinox 900
Ratings: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.7/5)
Type: Multi-frequency All-Terrain Metal Detector
Waterproof: Yes (up to 16 feet)
Frequency: Multi (from 5 kHz to 40 kHz)
Weight: 2.8 lbs
Search Modes: All Metal, Coins, Jewelry, Relics, Beach, Custom
Description:
The Minelab Equinox 900 is a powerful all-terrain metal detector suitable for both beginners and experienced treasure hunters. It uses Multi-IQ technology, which allows it to operate at multiple frequencies at the same time, ensuring accurate detection in various ground conditions. Whether you are on a beach, in a park, or in highly mineralized soil, this detector performs reliably. It is also waterproof up to 16 feet, making it great for beachcombing and shallow water searches. With a lightweight design and comfortable grip, it is easy to use for long periods.
Pros:
- Multi-frequency technology for flexibility
- Waterproof for beach and underwater use
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Long battery life for extended hunts
Cons:
- More expensive than basic models
- Steeper learning curve for complete beginners
Garrett ACE 400
Ratings: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.6/5)
Type: VLF (Very Low Frequency) Metal Detector
Waterproof: Yes (for shallow water)
Frequency: 10 kHz
Weight: 5.48 lbs
Depth Range: Up to 8 inches
Search Modes: Coin, Jewelry, Relic, and more
Description:
The Garrett ACE 400 is a great entry-level metal detector that provides solid performance at an affordable price. It operates at a 10 kHz frequency, making it suitable for finding coins, jewelry, and relics. The digital target ID feature helps you identify metal types before you dig, saving your time and effort. This model is also water-resistant, allowing it to handle shallow water hunts without problems. Its lightweight design and simple controls make it an excellent choice for beginners.
Pros:
- Affordable and budget-friendly
- Lightweight and user-friendly
- Digital target ID makes identifying metals easy
- Effective for finding coins, jewelry, and relics
Cons:
- Limited depth compared to pricier models
- Not suitable for saltwater hunts
Fisher F75
Ratings: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.3/5)
Type: High-performance VLF Metal Detector
Waterproof: No
Frequency: 13 kHz
Weight: 3 lbs
Depth Range: Up to 12 inches
Search Modes: All Metal, Jewelry, Relic, Coin, and more
Description:
The Fisher F75 is made for serious treasure hunters who want depth, sensitivity, and advanced features. This high-performance detector works at a 13 kHz frequency, allowing for deep detection, making it ideal for finding coins, relics, and jewelry. With a depth range of up to 12 inches, the F75 is excellent at detecting targets buried deep in the ground. Its lightweight design makes it comfortable for long hunts, while the target discrimination feature helps you separate valuable items from trash.
Pros:
- Excellent depth and sensitivity
- Advanced target discrimination for finding treasures in cluttered areas
- Lightweight and ergonomic
- Great for detecting coins, relics, and jewelry
Cons:
- Higher price compared to entry-level detectors
- Requires some experience for optimal use
Nokta Makro Simplex+
Ratings: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5/5)
Type: Waterproof Metal Detector
Waterproof: Yes (up to 10 feet)
Frequency: 12 kHz
Weight: 2.9 lbs
Depth Range: Up to 8 inches
Search Modes: Beach, Park, Field, All Metal, and more
Description:
The Nokta Makro Simplex+ is an excellent option for those looking for a budget-friendly waterproof detector. It works well for both beginners and intermediate users who want to explore wet conditions like beaches or shallow waters. With multiple search modes and a lightweight design, it is versatile and simple to use. Although it is waterproof up to 10 feet, it may not have the depth or features of more advanced models.
With this guide, you’ll be better prepared to choose the right metal detector based on your needs and preferences. Happy treasure hunting!
Pros:
- Affordable price for a waterproof detector
- Easy to use with multiple search modes
- Lightweight design for extended hunts
- Great depth for its price
Cons:
- Limited depth range compared to premium models
- Best for shallow water hunting only
Minelab Gold Monster 1000
Ratings: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.3/5)
Type: Gold Prospecting Detector
Waterproof: No
Frequency: 45 kHz
Weight: 2.9 lbs
Depth Range: Up to 8 inches
Search Modes: Gold, All Metal
Description:
If you’re serious about gold prospecting, the Minelab Gold Monster 1000 is a great option. Its 45 kHz frequency allows it to find even the tiniest gold nuggets, making it a strong choice for gold hunters. The automatic ground balance feature ensures it performs well, even in tough conditions. While it’s mainly designed for gold hunting, its lightweight design and simple controls make it easy to use for both beginners and experienced prospectors.
Pros:
- Great sensitivity for detecting small gold nuggets
- Automatic ground balance for easy use
- Lightweight and ergonomic for comfort
- Excellent for gold prospecting
Cons:
- Not versatile for general metal detecting
- Limited depth for larger items
XP Deus II
Ratings: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.8/5)
Type: High-performance Multi-frequency Detector
Waterproof: Yes (up to 16.4 feet)
Frequency: Adjustable (4-45 kHz)
Weight: 2.2 lbs
Depth Range: Up to 12 inches
Search Modes: Beach, Coin, Jewelry, Relic, and more
Description:
The XP Deus II is one of the top metal detectors in 2025. It has multi-frequency technology with adjustable frequencies from 4 kHz to 45 kHz, allowing you to customize your detector for different situations. Whether you’re searching on land, at the beach, or underwater (up to 16.4 feet), the Deus II provides excellent depth and accuracy.
Its lightweight, wireless design makes it ideal for professional treasure hunters who need a versatile, high-performance tool.
Pros:
- Multi-frequency technology for versatility
- Waterproof up to 16.4 feet for underwater searches
- Adjustable frequency for better target detection
- Lightweight and wireless design
Cons:
- Expensive compared to other models
- Complex for beginners, requiring some learning
Comparison Table of above mentioned Six Best Metal Detectors:
| Model | Weight | Waterproof | Frequency | Depth Range | Best For | Price Range |
| Garrett ACE 400 | 5.48 lbs | Yes (Shallow) | 10 kHz | 8 inches | Beginners, Casual Users | $200-$250 |
| Minelab Equinox 900 | 2.8 lbs | Yes (16 ft) | Multi (5-40 kHz) | 12 inches | All-terrain, Professionals | $900-$1000 |
| Fisher F75 | 3 lbs | No | 13 kHz | 12 inches | Serious Treasure Hunters | $650-$750 |
| Nokta Makro Simplex+ | 2.9 lbs | Yes (10 ft) | 12 kHz | 8 inches | Budget Waterproof Model | $300-$350 |
| Minelab Gold Monster 1000 | 2.9 lbs | No | 45 kHz | 8 inches | Gold Prospecting | $800-$900 |
| XP Deus II | 2.2 lbs | Yes (16.4 ft) | Adjustable (4-45 kHz) | 12 inches | Advanced Users, Versatile | $1300-$1500 |
Guide to Buying a Top Metal Detector:
When buying a metal detector, several factors are important to consider. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the right one for your needs:
Purpose: Are you looking for coins, jewelry, relics, or gold? Different detectors work better for different tasks, so identify what you want to achieve.
Terrain: Will you be hunting on land, at the beach, or underwater? Ensure your detector is suitable for the areas you plan to explore.
Skill Level: Some detectors are made for beginners, while others suit more advanced users. Think about your experience and comfort level with technology.
Weight and Comfort: You might be out hunting for hours, so check that the detector is lightweight and comfortable to handle.
Budget: Set a budget and compare features. More expensive detectors often include advanced options, but many good choices are available at reasonable prices, too.
FAQs About Metal Detectors
1) What is the best metal detector for beginners?
If you are starting out with metal detecting, the Garrett ACE 400 is a great choice. It provides solid performance and user-friendly features like digital target ID, which helps you identify metals before you dig. It’s affordable, lightweight, and easy to handle, making it perfect for newcomers to the hobby.
2) Are metal detectors waterproof?
Some metal detectors are made to be waterproof. This feature allows you to hunt in shallow water, on beaches, or even underwater. For instance, the Minelab Equinox 900 and Nokta Makro Simplex+ are fully waterproof, making them ideal for beachcombing or exploring wet areas. However, many detectors are only water-resistant, which means they can handle rain or damp conditions but aren’t suitable for submersion. Always check the specifications to see how water-resistant your detector is before using it near water.
3) Can metal detectors find gold?
Yes, some detectors are specifically designed for gold prospecting. The Minelab Gold Monster 1000, for example, operates at a high frequency of 45 kHz, making it very sensitive to small gold nuggets. If you are interested in gold hunting, look for detectors that are made for that purpose, as they will give better results than general-purpose models.
4) How deep can a metal detector go?
The depth a metal detector can reach depends on various factors like the type of metal being detected, soil conditions, and the detector itself. On average, most detectors can locate objects buried about 8 to 12 inches deep. More advanced models, like the Fisher F75, can go even deeper, making them suitable for finding buried relics and treasures. However, depth may be limited in areas with mineralized soil or wet conditions.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right metal detector in 2025 is important for ensuring you get the best value and performance for your treasure-hunting adventures. The key is to match the detector to your specific needs. If you are a beginner, a user-friendly option like the Garrett ACE 400 is perfect for learning without spending too much. For those wanting an all-terrain, versatile machine, the Minelab Equinox 900 offers high-tech features like Multi-IQ technology and waterproofing, making it suitable for different environments.
If you want to find deeper treasures or explore gold prospecting, consider the Fisher F75 and Minelab Gold Monster 1000. They provide the depth and sensitivity needed to uncover hidden relics and nuggets. For those looking for an advanced, wireless, and fully customizable detector, the XP Deus II has multi-frequency technology that works well for expert treasure hunters.
When selecting your metal detector, think about your skill level, the type of hunting you’ll be doing, and your budget. Whether you are searching for coins, relics, jewelry, or gold, there is a metal detector that fits your needs. Remember, investing in a good detector will significantly improve your chances of success in this exciting hobby. Happy hunting!